3d particle systems?

[Gunslinger]

Ok I know how to set up a 2d particle system, but how do you set up a 3d one? I think someone said you can use some plugin called crowd? If so where can I get it?

On an unrelated note, does anyone know how to make a part of your animation split screen? in other words, you have say two 5 sec animations that you want to show both at the same time on a diagonally split screen in the final animation. Do most video editors have this capability? I have pinnacle, would that work or does someone know of something better to get the job done?